Estudo taxonômico das espécies de Manihot Mill. (Euphorbiaceae) do banco ativo de germoplasma da Embrapa Mandioca e Fruticultura, Cruz das Almas, Bahia

Abstract

Wild species of Manihot are useful in cassava breeding programs, a plant that is an important source of starch in many human diets. Taxonomic studies of this genus have been scarce, however, and several species are endangered. The Embrapa Cassava & Fruit Collection contains ca. 560 specimens of wild cassava species from different regions of Brazil, although many have uncertain taxonomic identifications. The present work reviewed the taxonomy of these specimens and provides synopsis and diagnostic illustrations for each collection/species. Eleven species were identified, with three subspecies and two varieties. Two new species were registered, while one could not be identified.